Possible Attack Suggested as Cause of Beirut Massive Explosion
Defense Ministry Denies Attack Possibility
State Department, "Ready to Provide Immediate Recovery Support"
Local US Embassy Warns of Toxic Gas Risk
[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] U.S. President Donald Trump said that the massive explosion in Beirut, Lebanon, appears to be a horrific attack. He also raised the possibility of a bomb attack.
President Trump began the COVID-19 briefing on the 4th (local time) by mentioning the Beirut explosion incident.
President Trump said, "The United States is ready to help Lebanon. This incident seems to be a horrific attack." Responding to a reporter's question about the Beirut explosion, he said, "I saw it as an explosion, and our great generals also see it that way. This is not a simple explosion accident. It appears to be a type of bomb attack."
However, the U.S. Department of Defense stated that there were no signs of an attack following President Trump's remarks.
On the same day, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also issued a statement expressing readiness to provide immediate support regarding the incident.
Secretary Pompeo expressed deep regret to Lebanon over the incident, emphasizing, "We are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to assist Lebanon. We are waiting for the Lebanese government to investigate and find the cause."
Immediately after the incident, the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon advised Americans in the area that reports of toxic gas leaks following the explosion are ongoing, recommending that they stay indoors or wear masks.
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